Lead Refrigeration and Cooling Systems Installer

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 650,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle for business use

Bonuses based on performance

Health and life insurance

Pension plan with company contribution

Generous annual leave

Training and development opportunities

Exposure to large-scale projects

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Refrigeration and Cooling Systems Installer based in George, Western Cape. You will oversee the installation, commissioning, and service of large-scale refrigeration and cooling systems, leading a team of technicians to deliver projects on time and within budget.

The role requires hands-on leadership, deep expertise in refrigeration technology and thermodynamics, and a strong focus on safety and quality. Travel within the Western Cape is expected as needed.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in installation, maintenance and repair of commercial/industrial refrigeration systems.
• Strong leadership experience managing a technical team.
• Experience handling refrigerants with safety and environmental regulations.
• Solid understanding of thermodynamics, electrical and mechanical concepts related to cooling.
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and schematics.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise teams of refrigeration technicians during installation and commissioning phases.
• Install, service, and repair commercial and industrial refrigeration and cooling systems.
• Interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and specifications to ensure accurate system assembly.
• Perform diagnostic tests and troubleshoot complex system malfunctions, identifying root causes.
• Ensure installations comply with safety standards, regulations, and environmental protocols.
• Manage project timelines, material procurement, and resource allocation for installation projects.
• Train and mentor junior technicians, fostering a culture of skill development and safety awareness.
• Conduct performance testing and system optimization post-installation.
• Maintain detailed records of work performed, including inventory, labor, and equipment status.
• Collaborate with clients and project stakeholders to address concerns and ensure satisfaction.

Skills

Leadership

Team supervision

Problem solving

Thermodynamics

Reading drawings

Safety compliance

Communication

Travel readiness

Education

Trade certification in refrigeration technology

Mechanical engineering qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the installation and maintenance sector, is seeking a proactive and experienced Lead Refrigeration and Cooling Systems Installer to be based in **George, Western Cape**. This senior role involves overseeing the installation and commissioning of complex industrial and commercial refrigeration units, cold storage facilities, and large-scale cooling systems. You will lead a team of technicians, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. The successful candidate will be a hands‑on leader with exceptional technical expertise in refrigeration mechanics and thermodynamics, and a strong focus on safety and operational efficiency. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute significantly to major infrastructure projects in the **George** region and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise teams of refrigeration technicians during installation and commissioning phases.
• Install, service, and repair commercial and industrial refrigeration and cooling systems.
• Interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and specifications to ensure accurate system assembly.
• Perform diagnostic tests and troubleshoot complex system malfunctions, identifying root causes.
• Ensure all installations comply with relevant safety standards, regulations, and environmental protocols.
• Manage project timelines, material procurement, and resource allocation for installation projects.
• Train and mentor junior technicians, fostering a culture of skill development and safety awareness.
• Conduct performance testing and system optimization post-installation.
• Maintain detailed records of work performed, including inventory, labor, and equipment status.
• Collaborate with clients and project stakeholders to address concerns and ensure satisfaction.

Requirements

• Extensive experience in the installation, maintenance, and repair of commercial and industrial refrigeration systems.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, with the ability to manage and motivate a technical team.
• Proficiency in handling refrigerants and knowledge of associated safety and environmental regulations.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, electrical systems, and mechanical principles related to cooling.
• Ability to read and understand complex engineering drawings and schematics.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Valid driver's license and a willingness to travel within the **Western Cape** region.
• Relevant trade certification or qualification in refrigeration technology or mechanical engineering.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and quality in all work.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health and life insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Company vehicle for business use.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities to stay abreast of industry advancements.
• Exposure to large-scale, impactful projects.